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Easkey Beach
Discover the charm of Easkey (or Easky), one of Sligo’s most iconic stops along the Wild Atlantic Way. Famous worldwide as a premier surfing destination, the beach and pier offer waves sculpted by the rocky coastline—perfect for surfers of all levels seeking adventure on the Atlantic. Standing proudly by the shoreline is O’Dowd Castle, a striking 13th-century tower house that tells the story of the region’s rich past. Even the village name carries history: Easkey comes from the Gaelic word Iasc, meaning “fish,” a nod to the once-abundant salmon and trout in the nearby river.
Easkey River
Nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way, the village of Easkey in County Sligo is beautifully framed by the River Easkey. Rising high in the Ox Mountains, Lough Easkey is the river’s source, sending clear waters cascading through wild bogland and rolling pasture before meeting the Atlantic Ocean at the heart of the village. Stretching for many kilometres, this picturesque spate stream not only shapes the landscape but also adds to Easkey’s natural charm, making it a perfect spot to explore both mountain and sea.
Sligo Abbey
Sligo Abbey, a 13th-century Dominican priory, is one of the town’s most remarkable historic sites. Despite fire, siege, and centuries of turmoil, it preserves a wealth of treasures, including a stunning 15th-century high altar, graceful cloister, and fine medieval carvings. Surrounded by its old graveyard, the Abbey offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Sligo’s turbulent past.
Benbulben Mountain
Rising above Drumcliffe Village, the majestic Benbulben is Sligo’s most iconic peak. Begin your adventure from Luke’s Bridge and follow trails past glacial tracks, gullies, and streams to reach its flat-topped summit, where breathtaking views of the Wild Atlantic Way await. Along the way, spot rare plants like the Ice Age Fringed Sandwort. For a gentler option, the Benbulben Loop Trail leads to a beautiful waterfall with sweeping views over Sligo Bay and even Donegal on a clear day. At the mountain’s base, visit the grave of poet W.B. Yeats in Drumcliffe Cemetery, then relax with a meal at the charming Drumcliffe Tea House.
Strandhill Beach
Just 8km west of Sligo town, Strandhill Beach is a surfing hotspot with schools for both beginners and pros. Backed by sweeping views of Knocknarea and Benbulben, it’s also perfect for walkers, with trails leading through dunes and along the coast to Culleenamore Strand or Killaspugbrone. On sunny days, arrive early to soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy great food and coffee in the village cafés and restaurants.
Carrowkeel Megalithic Tombs
Perched in the Bricklieve Mountains near Castlebaldwin, County Sligo, the Carrowkeel Megalithic Site is an extraordinary hilltop cemetery of ancient passage tombs. The main site features 14 cairns dating from 3200 to 2400 BC, many built with striking limestone slabs, alongside 140 circular stone foundations thought to mark a prehistoric village. Some cairns extend west toward Keshcorran Mountain, capped by a large burial mound. Visitors are encouraged to explore with a guide and respect the site, which is legally protected, while imagining the ancient lives of those who built these fascinating monuments.
Contact
Address
Keadue,
Easkey,
Co. Sligo,
F26 YR53
Phone
087 2853064 / 087 6537251
